Even though the Trustees meet as often as possible to review applications for grants so that young people receive the money they need when they need it, we know that sometimes that’s not often enough. We also know that there are many youth professionals in Birmingham that know which young people need funding – many of which are difficult for us to reach.

That’s why we’re teaming upwith Birmingham City Council’s Youth Service to run a grant funding project where youth workers manage a small grant pot to distribute as they see fit.

The Youth Service works with young people from across Birmingham, often from disadvantaged backgrounds who are facing daily struggles with financial barriers to realise their potential. Very timely, small grants can make all the difference.

We’ve had a number of conversations with the council who fully understand and support not only the ethos of the MKF but also the criteria by which we distribute grants. We’re delighted that they’ll be managing a grant of £3,000 over the next six months.

We’ll be launching the pilot this autumn to see if this approach driven by local professionals supports more of Birmingham most disadvantaged. We’ll keep you up to date!